Rescue goose. I need some info.

[mattyj198]

I am thinking of adopting a Canadian goose for the winter. We have a local bird sanctuary / hospital but they said they won't take her for the winter. She was born this spring but was injured and now can't fly. A family has been taking care of her all summer and she is friendly. Her family is about to fly south for the winter and she can't (I live west of Montreal Quebec) I have a 10X10 heated shed with 3 chickens living in it. I was thinking of taking in this goose for the winter. I have no experience with geese. I don't know the feed, requirements ect. I was wondering if anyone could suggest anything.

Thanks!

 

[jtn42248]

Bless you.

First I would advise that you contact your local wild life authority (the bird sanctuary may be able to help you) to see if and what permits you would need to foster a wild Canadian Goose. They are pretty well regulated and I would hate to see you try to do the right thing and then get in trouble for it.

Then I would (if I were you) ask the bird sanctuary about any diet needs that they would recommend for a wild Canadian. They may be able to put you in contact with a supplier that they use and you might be able to get a discount. Geese tend to be grazers and a large enough patch of grass might serve but with your winters that may not be available.

Finally, you mention that a family has been taking care of her and that they are about to take off for the winter. I am guessing that this is a human family. Has she been without goose companionship all this time? She will have become bonded to her "family" and may morn their being gone so she will need extra attention. If by family you are referring to a goose family that morning will be even more intense and she may try to fly off with them. If she is injured and can't fly this could be a real risk for her well being.

I do wish you all the best and congratulate you on your humanity. Keep in touch here on BYC and let us know how it goes.

 

[Gray Farms]

Geese will do just fine on whatever chicken feed you are using. Supplement with fresh lettuce, cabbage, spinach, or whatever leafy greens are on sale at the store. Your housing should be fine to add a goose to your chickens.